Hi there, welcome to PT.

I have lots of friend who are breeders, and even my dog will be bred in July. Let me tell you, it's tough. I had to work very hard with my dog and spend alot of money in order to do our sports, but it is important to me that she has titles before and after she is bred. I still work hard with her because she doesn't have a very good ring temperment -- it takes tons of work and socialisation, and TONS of money. I have to travel everywhere, I have to pay for her heath certifications (to make sure she doesn't pass diseases on to her pups), I have to pay for lessons and trials and shows...It'd be a rough life for someone who isn't truly dedicated.

Breeding isn't something you do just because some people want puppies; It's a hobby and a passion. My goal is for my dog to create healthy, well-rounded, well-tempered puppies that will go on to be the best they can be and possibly go on to better the breed, themselves. I have researched and understand the risk factors involved. My dog may need an emergency C-section, and she and/or the puppies could die during the whelping. The puppies could be born prematurely, or Visa may not produce enough milk and we will have to take turns staying up and bottle feeding the puppes. The puppies could be born with defects and they would have to be put to sleep. Because my dog is not spayed, she is at risk for cancer, and pyometra (a life threatening condition where the uterus becomes infected and fills with puss). I also have to deal with her incessant annoying behaviour during her heat -- she bleeds everywhere, she smells TERRIBLE (the discharge from their vulva literally smells up the entire house), she acts freaky and screams, she attracts male dogs into our yard (even our 6 foot fence didn't stop a chow from stopping by last year). She is at greater risk for behavioural problems because she isn't spayed. But I do it all because I have a goal in mind.

If you are truly dedicated to your breed and you are willing to spend the time and money and make lots of sacrifices, then maybe you could be a reputable breeder. First I would recommend talking to a Westie breeder. Hopefully your dog came from a reputable breeder (what was the breeder's kennel name?). The breeder can help you with any problems you encounter along the way, and can take a look at your dog's pedigree and possibly locate a good stud. Keep in mind that a stud dog will usually cost you anywhere from $500 and up. Obviously the breeder will really preach that you do health certifications. Here is a list of Westie health problems . At the bottom of the page is OFA's link, it will let you know if there are any OFA/ CERF, etc clinics in your area. You will definatly want to wait until your westie is 2 years of age to breed. OFA won't even certify a dog that is younger than that. The breeder can teach you how to handle your dog in the showring and possibly other sports. If your dog is not show quality, the breeder will probably recommend that you don't breed (as Westies are not often bred only for their working ability these days). The breeder will also not recommend breeding if your dog is unregistered, unpedigreed, not health certified, coming from bad lines, having a bad temperment, having health issues, etc.

Keep all of this is mind -- yes, everyone does start somewhere -- but the responsible people start off by listening to those that are much more experienced than they. I wouldn't be breeding my dog if I didn't have her breeder giving me her first-hand experience.

Hope to see pictures of your dog!